Loch Shiel

The Road to the Isles (Rathad nan Eilean) is like a magnet, I am drawn to it everytime I visit the Highlands. I never tire of the 40 or so miles of pure beauty from Fort William to Mallaig. Well most of it is pure beauty, I have to admit that it might not start off too good! The drive to Mallaig and the return via Sunart, Moidart and Ardgour is a day well spent.



Roughly 15 miles out of Fort William is Glenfinnan and the head of Loch Shiel, a place steeped in history and romance. Situated at the head of Loch Shiel is the Glenfinnan Monument.

         "Glenfinnan Monument tells a tale of bravery and loyalty and commemorates the fight and the fall of the Jacobites during the 1745 uprising. A tower that stands tall with a lone un-named Highlander posed atop in full kilt marks the spot where Prince Charles Edward Stewart, known as Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard. It was James Gillespie Graham who designed the monument that was then erected in 1815 by Alexander Macdonald of Glenaladale.
The story of the raising of the standard is widely known in Scotland. In the early afternoon of August 19 1745 Bonnie Prince Charlie landed a small rowboat at the head of the Loch Shiel meeting 50 Macdonalds and awaiting the response to the support her requested all over Scotland’s Highland.

Soon another 150 Macdonalds joined the scene and hearts raced and soared as 1000 men of the Clan Cameron appeared from the north.
An additional 300 Macdonalds arrived late having fended a skirmish with government troops on the way.
With 1500 men behind him in support Prince Charles Edward Steward stood atop a hill and raised his standard."  - http://www.glenfinnan.org/Glenfinnan_Monument.html



The Loch is surrounded by hills on three sides and is a place of remarkable beauty. It is a photographer's paradise and I hope you enjoy my photos of the Loch.